MLB PLAYER NEWS

Brasier was sent back to Boston earlier this week, but he should have no problem getting ready in time for Opening Day. The 31-year-old right-hander appears to be the current frontrunner for ninth-inning duties.

numberFire's models expect Brasier to convert 18 saves and record a 2.95 ERA with 58 strikeouts over 58 innings in 2019.

That would be a pretty big leap after Turner led the National League with 42 steals on 53 attempts last season. Over the last decade, only nine major leaguers have attempted 75-plus steals in a season and only four have attempted 80 or more. Still, the comment is a testament to the sort of upside Turner can provide for fantasy owners.

"Obviously, there’s a history with Carlos’ shoulder," said Mozeliak, "and it would be probably in everybody’s best interest if he maintained a constant or perpetual approach to [club-implemented workouts]." The Cardinals placed Martinez on a no-throw program Tuesday morning at camp due to concerns about the strength of his right shoulder, indicating the 27-year-old right-hander may not be ready for the start of the season. He was limited to 118 2/3 innings (18 starts, 15 relief appearances) last season due to multiple upper-arm injuries.

numberFire's models currently expect Martinez to record a 3.70 ERA and 1.27 WHIP with 181 strikeouts and 75 walks across 180 innings this season.

The San Diego Padres and infielder Manny Machado have agreed to a 10-year, $300 million contract, reports Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.

What It Means:

The deal will be the largest free-agent contract in the history of American sports once it becomes official, at least until Bryce Harper signs. Machado, 26, slashed .297/.367/.538 with 37 home runs, 107 RBI, 84 runs scored, and 14 steals across 709 plate appearances for the Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Dodgers last season.

numberFire's models project Machado for a .295 batting average with 34 dingers, 99 RBI, 90 runs scored, and 13 steals for the Padres in 2019.

Seattle Mariners center fielder Mallex Smith (right elbow strain) is unlikely to be ready to play the field for games in Japan against the Oakland Athletics on March 20-21.

What It Means:

The Mariners are taking it easy with Smith to start the spring as he continues to recover from his elbow injury, but even if he's not cleared for defensive duties, the 25-year-old could contribute as a designated hitter or pinch-runner in Japan. That said, it wouldn't be surprising if Smith is held out until Seattle's season opener against the Boston Red Sox at home on March 28. He slashed .296/.367/.406 with 40 stolen bases over 141 games (544 plate appearances) last season, adding 65 runs scored, 40 RBI, and 2 homers.

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Carlos Martinez will be on a no-throw program for two weeks in order to strengthen his shoulder.

What It Means:

The positive news is that an MRI taken Monday revealed no structural damage in Martinez's shoulder, but this does create some doubt about the 27-year-old right-hander's availability for the start of the season. Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Martinez will be re-evaluated on March 5.

numberFire's models currently expect Martinez to record a 3.70 ERA and 1.27 WHIP with 181 strikeouts and 75 walks across 180 innings this season.